Eucalyptus
Also known as- Eucalyptus globules, Blue Gum, Blue Mallee, Blue Mallee Oil, Fever Tree, Fieberbaumblatter, Gully Gum, Gully Gum Oil, Gum Tree, Red Gum, Stringy Bark Tree, Sugandhapatra, Tailapatra, Tasmanian Blue Gum. Introduction The eucalyptus is an evergreen tree native to Australia but naturalized to California and the Mediterranean countries. Its leathery blue-green leaves are studded with glands containing a fragrant, volatile oil. There are many species of eucalyptus trees, but the most pleasant-smelling oil is produced by Eucalyptus globulus.In the early nineteenth century, the crew of an Australian freighter developed intractable fevers they were able to cure with eucalyptus tree. Eucalyptus became well known in Europe as the Australian fever tree. American physicians used eucalyptus oil to sterilize surgical instruments and incisions, and also as a steam inhalation for asthma, bronchitis, colds and flu, emphysema, and whooping cough. Eucalyptus oil is extracted from the leaves of the Australian Eucalyptus tree. It has a clean and revitalizing fragrance that has been used for over 150 years for promoting clear chests and noses. Eucalyptus also has natural antibacterial action and has been used in Australian aboriginal medicine for centuries. Constituents The major volatile oil in eucalyptus leaf is eucalyptol, also known as 1,8-cineol. This compound is found in many other herbs in concentrations of 1 to 5%, but makes up about 70% of eucalyptus oil. Parts Used The leaf, its volatile oils released by steam. Typical Preparations Facial or hydro-steams, aromatherapy, and teas. Some uses may include encapsulation or extracts, however we have found these to be rare. Summary Eucalyptus oil acts on nerve receptors in the mucosa of the nose and sinuses in a way that causes release of mucus. In laboratory studies, eucalyptol (the main essential oil in the herb) is antibacterial against several strains of Streptococcus, the organism that causes strep throat. A combination of eucalyptus and mint may help relieve snoring. Precautions Never take eucalyptus oil internally. For safety, use eucalyptus leaf teas and steams rather than the oil. Excessive use may cause gastro-intestinal upset.
The information on this web site is intended for educational purposes only, and not as any form of medical advice. You should not use the information contained herein for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing any medication. If you have or suspect you have a medical problem, contact your health care provider.
|
